What is acupuncture? 

Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine practice that involves inserting thin, sterile, single-use needles into specific points on the body. It has been around for thousands of years and widely studied and proven effective for many conditions. The goal of acupuncture treatment is to restore balance, reduce pain, decrease inflammation, and increase range of motion in the body. 

Research has shown that acupuncture works by interacting with the autonomic nervous system by interacting with the autonomic nervous system to release neurotransmitters that promote pain modulation throughout the body.  It also works with the body’s immune response, promoting lymph and blood flow throughout the body. 

What do acupuncturists treat? 

Acupuncturists can help treat a wide range of conditions including chronic and acute pain (low back, neck, jaw, joint, etc.), headaches/migraines, anxiety, depression, insomnia, digestive issues, fertility, cycle regulation, allergies, respiratory conditions, fatigue, and stress-related ailments. 

Is acupuncture painful? 

Acupuncture is typically not painful, though sensations vary by individual. Most people feel minimal discomfort during needle insertion—often described as “that’s nothing” or as a brief pinch or tingling sensation. Once the needles are in place, patients commonly experience a deep relaxation. The needles used are extremely thin, about the width of a human hair.  And your acupuncturist is thoroughly trained to make it as painfree as possible.    

How many acupuncture sessions will I need? 

The number of acupuncture sessions needed varies based on your condition and individual response.  While many patients notice improvements after 1-3 treatments, I usually recommend that patients complete 3-6 treatments for effective results.  Acute issues may resolve in 1-4 sessions, while chronic conditions typically require 6-12 sessions or more. We will develop a personalized treatment plan during your initial consultation. 

Is acupuncture safe? 

Acupuncture is very safe when performed by a licensed practitioner. Al Reed is fully licensed through the Oregon Medical Board.  They are thoroughly trained to offer PARQ (Procedure, Alternatives, Risks, Questions) to all new patients, which means we will talk about potential side effects and risks in your first session.  

Side effects are minimal, such as slight bruising or soreness at needle sites.  Serious complications are extremely rare. Always inform your acupuncturist about any medical conditions or medications you're taking. 

What is cupping therapy?

Cupping therapy is a treatment that uses glass or silicone cups to create suction on the skin. This suction increases blood flow, releases tight muscles and adhesions in the fascia, and reduces overall muscle tension. Cupping is effective for treating acute and chronic pain and improving circulation throughout the body. The technique may leave temporary circular marks that typically fade within a few days.

What is Gua Sha?

Gua Sha is a myofascial technique that involves scraping a smooth-edged tool across lubricated skin. This process releases tight muscles and adhesions in the fascia, promotes circulation, and reduces inflammation. Gua Sha is particularly effective for neck pain, headaches/migraines, acute and chronic muscle pain, and lymphatic drainage. The treatment may leave temporary redness that typically fades within days.

What is microneedling?

Microneedling is a minimally invasive procedure that uses fine needles to create tiny punctures in the skin. These micro-injuries stimulate the body's natural wound healing process, which then increases collagen and elastin production. Microneedling can improve skin texture, add brightness, reduce scarring, minimize pores, and address fine lines. It's an effective treatment for facial rejuvenation and scar tissue therapy.

How does acupuncture help treat allergies?

Acupuncture treats allergies by modulating the immune system and reducing inflammatory responses. Specific acupuncture points help decrease histamine production and open nasal passages. Regular treatments can reduce allergy symptoms like congestion, sneezing, and itchy eyes. Acupuncture offers a natural approach to allergy management without the side effects of medications.

Acupuncture for allergies is so safe and effective that researchers are taking note! The American Academy of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery recommends acupuncture as a non-pharmacological therapy for allergic rhinitis. They noted that it is specifically helpful for environmental allergies such as pollen, dust mites, molds, dander and more.

Can acupuncture help with chronic pain?

Acupuncture effectively treats chronic pain by reducing tension in the specific muscle, improving circulation to the treated muscle, and interacting with the autonomic nervous system to release neurotransmitters that promote pain modulation throughout the body . It can address various pain conditions including low back pain, shoulder pain, neck pain, jaw pain, arthritis, fibromyalgia, and neuropathy, and more. Regular treatments often provide cumulative benefits, leading to lasting pain relief. Many patients report decreased reliance on pain medications after consistent acupuncture therapy.

How does acupuncture help with stress and anxiety?

Acupuncture helps stress and anxiety by activating the parasympathetic nervous system ("rest and digest" mode). Treatment reduces cortisol levels, lowers heart rate and blood pressure, and promotes deep relaxation. Many patients experience immediate calming effects during sessions that lasts with them throughout the week. Regular acupuncture can improve sleep quality, mental clarity, and emotional regulation for better long-term stress management.

How can acupuncture and microneedling provide gender-affirming care?

Acupuncture can be a powerful form of gender-affirming care, supporting both physical and emotional well-being. It can help manage mental health, hormone-related symptoms, surgical recovery, energy levels, chronic pain, and more.

Beyond their role as an acupuncturist, Al values being a community resource for their patients. They are happy to recommend and collaborate with other queer-affirming providers—such as physical therapists, massage therapists, and medical doctors—so you as a patient can feel supported from every angle.

Learn more about how acupuncture can support your gender-affirming care here

Microneedling is a minimally invasive treatment that stimulates the body’s natural collagen production. By encouraging new skin growth, it can help soften and smooth the appearance of scars that may result from procedures such as top surgery or phalloplasty. For many trans and non-binary people, this type of care can be an important part of healing—both physically and emotionally. Microneedling treatments can support comfort, confidence, and skin health throughout different stages of gender transition, offering a gentle way to enhance recovery and overall well-being.

How does acupuncture support hormone therapy?

Acupuncture supports hormone therapy by helping balance the endocrine system. Treatment can help alleviate symptoms like fluctuations in temperature, sweating, hot flashes, mood swings, headaches, nausea, heightened anxiety, bloating, and sleep disturbances that sometimes occur during hormone therapy. Acupuncture also promotes overall wellbeing during transition through stress reduction and improved energy levels.

Can acupuncture help with post-surgical recovery for gender-affirming procedures?

Acupuncture supports post-surgical recovery for gender-affirming procedures by reducing pain, swelling, and inflammation immediately after surgery. We often do this by doing only needles on your limbs. Usually 6 weeks after top surgery or once your scars are healing properly, we can place very fine needles directly around or under scar tissue to gently break up adhesions, reduce discomfort or numbness in the area, and restore mobility in the surrounding muscles. Treatments before and after surgery strengthen the immune system, ease anxiety, support overall circulation in the body, and may reduce the risk of complications. Many patients report faster recovery times and a decreased need for pain medication when incorporating acupuncture into their surgical care.

What should I expect during my first acupuncture appointment?

Your first acupuncture appointment will include a comprehensive health history review and discussion of your goals. The actual treatment involves lying comfortably while thin needles are inserted. You'll rest with the needles for 20-40 minutes. The entire initial visit typically lasts 60-90 minutes.

How should I prepare for an acupuncture treatment?

Prepare for acupuncture by eating a light meal 1-2 hours before your appointment. Wear loose, comfortable clothing that can be rolled up to expose arms and legs. Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and intense exercise immediately before treatment. Bring a list of any medications or supplements you're taking. Its best to complete paperwork 24 hours prior to your first visit so that your acupuncturist has time to review your health history prior to the appt .

Are acupuncture services covered by insurance?

Many insurance plans now cover acupuncture services. I work with several insurance providers, and we can verify your coverage before treatment. For patients without coverage, we offer affordable self-pay rates and package options. We provide detailed receipts with appropriate coding for submission to insurance or HSA/FSA reimbursement. Learn more about billing and insurance here.

How do I know if acupuncture is right for me?

Acupuncture may be right for you if you're seeking natural approaches to health concerns, experiencing limited success with conventional treatments, or looking for complementary care. Al Reed offers free 15-minute consultations to discuss your specific conditions and how acupuncture might help. Most people can safely receive acupuncture, though modifications may be made for certain conditions.

Have another question? Feel free to reach out!